The Best Optometrists in Atwood, KS
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Atwood. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Michael D. Houser
Northwest Kansas Eye Care
Dr. Michael D. Houser has been a trusted optometrist in northwestern Kansas for over 20 years, serving Atwood and surrounding communities. His practice is known for advanced diagnostic technology, personalized care plans, and a strong focus on patient education. With high ratings for safety and family satisfaction, the clinic offers a wide range of services including pediatric eye care and emergency treatments. Patients appreciate the friendly staff and efficient, thorough exams.
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Dr. Lisa M. Thompson
Goodland Family Eye Care
Dr. Lisa M. Thompson specializes in family-centered eye care with an emphasis on children's vision and developmental optometry. Serving the Atwood area from Goodland, her practice is praised for its compassionate approach, modern amenities, and strong safety record. With over a decade of experience, she provides services like vision therapy and diabetic eye screenings, earning high marks for patient satisfaction and community involvement. The clinic is known for its welcoming environment and skilled team.
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Dr. James K. Johnson
Colby Vision Center
Dr. James K. Johnson leads Colby Vision Center with nearly two decades of experience, offering comprehensive optometric services to Atwood residents and the broader region. The practice is recognized for its state-of-the-art equipment, including digital retinal imaging, and a focus on preventive care. High patient ratings highlight the clinic's excellent staff qualifications, family-friendly atmosphere, and efficient service. Services range from sports vision assessments to managing chronic eye conditions, ensuring quality care for all ages.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a reputable optometrist in Atwood, KS?
In a smaller community like Atwood, word-of-mouth is often the best method. Ask for recommendations from your primary care doctor at the Rawlins County Health Center, local pharmacists, or neighbors. You can also check with the Kansas Optometric Association's online directory for licensed practitioners serving Northwest Kansas. Additionally, reviewing the websites or calling local practices to ask about their experience, services, and patient philosophy is a good step.
What eye care services are typically available from optometrists in the Atwood area?
Optometrists in Atwood and the surrounding region typically provide comprehensive eye exams, prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, and diagnosis/managing of common eye conditions like dry eye, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. Given the rural setting, many practices focus on essential primary eye care. For specialized surgical procedures or complex treatments, your local optometrist will likely coordinate a referral to an ophthalmologist in a larger city like Colby, Hays, or Denver.
Do optometrists in Atwood, KS accept my vision or medical insurance?
Most optometry practices in Atwood accept major medical insurance (like Medicare, Blue Cross, etc.) for medically necessary exams and major vision plans (like VSP or EyeMed) for routine vision care. However, due to the limited number of providers, it's crucial to call ahead. Verify directly with the optometrist's office whether they are in-network for your specific plan, as networks can be more limited in rural Kansas compared to urban areas.
What should I consider when choosing between the optometrists available in Atwood?
Given the limited options in a town of Atwood's size, key considerations include: the optometrist's availability and appointment wait times, the range of optical goods (frames, lenses) available on-site, their ability to handle specific needs (e.g., pediatric eye care, hard-to-fit contacts), and their referral network for advanced care. Also, consider the practice's hours and location convenience, as you may be traveling from a surrounding farm or ranch.
How far in advance do I typically need to schedule an eye exam in Atwood, KS?
Scheduling lead times can vary. For a routine comprehensive eye exam, it's common to book several weeks to a month in advance, especially for popular times like after-school hours or Saturdays. However, for urgent concerns (like a sudden eye injury or infection), optometrists in Atwood will generally work to accommodate same-day or next-day appointments. It's always best to call the office directly, as their schedules may be more flexible than online booking portals suggest.